AL Notes

Published 5:30 am, Friday, September 2, 2005

Pitcher Sidney Ponson was released by the Orioles, who contend that his conduct and problems with alcohol the past nine months give them grounds to terminate his contract. Ponson, on the disabled list with thumb and calf injuries, has one season left on a three-year deal that would pay him $10 million in 2006.

The team transferred Frank Thomas (broken foot) to the 60-day disabled list, possibly ending his White Sox career. He has a team-record 448 home runs and has expressed hope he will hit No. 500 in a White Sox uniform. But it will cost the Sox $10 million to keep Thomas, and they can buy out his option for $3.5 million.

Pitcher Runelvys Hernandez had the appeal of his 10-game suspension denied. Hernandez was penalized for a beanball incident on July 17 at Detroit that led to a brawl. Hernandez hit three batters, including Carlos Guillen in the head. Hernandez, who is on the disabled list with back and shoulder problems, must serve the suspension when he is activated.

Starter Jaret Wright was hit by a line drive near the collarbone and forced to leave Thursday's game against the Mariners. Raul Ibañez's line drive in the sixth inning seemed to strike Wright near the right collarbone and knocked the pitcher off his feet. Wright walked off under his own power, and the team said X-rays were negative.

•Pitcher Kevin Brown was placed to the 60-day disabled list, a move that ends his season and perhaps his career. Brown, 40, bothered by back problems, has been on the DL three times this year.